Learn More About Fishing Kayaks

Your Day on the Water: Learn More About Fishing Kayaks

Equip yourself for the journey. Today’s fishing kayaks are crafted with all the essentials an angler needs—think rod holders, extra storage space and molded footrests. Your kayak should feature a drag-resistant design that allows for easy maneuvering your waters, yet enough stability for comfort on the water.

Select single and tandem kayaks, and kayaks built with deluxe padded seats for added comfort. Browse leading paddle sport brands for the boat that’s right for you, including Perception Sport®, Sun Dolphin®, Pelican® and more.

Your fishing kayak should be built specially for angling. These kayaks should be stable enough to stand upon for better visibility, and feature utility-minded features—like built-in coolers or tackle boxes.

First think about your fishing environment—will you trolling a pond for trout or paddling through a lake after striper? The fishing environment, game fish and water conditions are essential factors in the type of kayak you select.

Many anglers prefer the stability offered by a more compact kayak, less than 11-feet in length. Depending on your game fish, you may prefer the added maneuverability and speed of a longer kayak.

Comfort is key during long hours on the water. Sit-on-top kayaks are ideal for beginners or novice anglers. And this brand of kayak is easier to get in and out of from the dock or the shore. Sit-in seats are typically above water-level, so these boats are wider than traditional kayaks. For added comfort, choose a fishing kayak with a padded and adjustable seat and adjustable foot pegs.

Think about the level of organization you need on your boat. Many fishing kayaks come with built-in rod holders, tackle boxes, dry storage compartments and free storage space—so you’ll never find yourself rummaging through your tackle for the right bait or tool.

Learn more about the construction of your kayak before making your selection:

Hatches: Many angling kayaks have storage space located at either end of the vessel. These bulkheads provide buoyancy if the boat becomes capsized. Hatches come with plastic or plastic lids or neoprene covers.

Rudder: The rudder of your kayak works as a submerged paddle. Engaging the foot levers in your kayak determines the direction of the rudder.